The following chart shows how to build a stash of cloth diapers over time. Prefold diapers will be used in the example assuming the average prefold costs $2.80 and the average disposable diaper costs $.20. For the purposes of this chart, initially you will need to purchase one prefold. Replacing one disposable with one prefold every day for two weeks will allow you to save another $2.80. You will now have two prefolds to use every day. The effect is similar to a debt snowball.

After two months, you will have enough prefolds to use cloth full-time!

In reality, you will need an inexpensive diaper fastener (such as a pin, Snappi or Boingo) or a waterproof cover to hold the prefold on the baby. These can be purchased up front for around $15 or you can make a cover and inserts from items you already have at home. You can slow down your purchasing snowball to buy additional covers or use your extra savings at week 9 to purchase more.

You can use the diaper purchasing snowball with any cloth diapering system. Just evaluate your goals, your budget, and what type of diapering system you prefer. The timing of the complete conversion to reusable cloth diapers will change depending on the variables. The most important aspect is that everyone can cloth diaper, and everyone can be freed from the economic bindings of disposable diapers. Enjoy your savings from week 9 through potty learning!